Antique/Vintage Ethiopian Cross Pattée (E329)

Description

The term Coptic Cross refers to several variants in Christian art associated with the Coptic Orthodox Church in Africa. Coptic crosses from the Orthodox Church of Alexandria were a foundation for Ethiopian Cross design and symbolism. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church historically assimilated pre-Christian symbols and imparted its own meanings to them. A Christian cross with a circular shape on top shows the influence of the pagan Egyptian round ankh that represented the sun god and eternal life granted by the gods to the ancient Egyptians, while to the to the Copts the circle symbolized Christ’s halo, divinity, and God’s everlasting and eternal love brought to man through the Sacrifice of His Son on the cross and resurrection.

In this pendant the circle was placed on the horizontal arms of a Cross Pattée with rounded flaring arms that narrow to the center.

Using the lost wax technique with coin-silver, this cross it is a one-of-a-kind pendant in very good condition with normal signs of wear consistent with age and use and a fine patina. An attached suspension-loop allows a chain or cord to be threaded through it. The coin silver chain is not included and may be purchased separately. Call 213-568-3030 or email [email protected] for chain options.

For information and bibliographic citations click here for the blog The Evolution and Brilliance of Ethiopian Crosses